PYT Introduces the Judy Robe!

Recently, Actors’ Equity Association—the labor union that represents professional actors—announced that they will be renaming the Gypsy Robe ceremony this fall. The announcement has shaken the theatre community as the Gypsy Robe has been an important and beloved tradition for the better part of a century.

Spotlight asked Loryn Hatten, PYT’s Producing Artistic Director to comment on what this means for PYT since naming a Gypsy Robe winner a has always been a part of PYT’s tradition too!

Loryn: When the PYT Staff learned that Actors’ Equity Association was renaming the Gypsy Robe ceremony due to the cultural implications of term, it prompted us at to take stock of how we felt about the use of the word “gypsy” in one of our most beloved traditions and how we wanted to respond as an organization. As “gypsy” is a non-preferred and often derogatory term for Roma people, the Romani community has been lobbying for quite some time for the theatre community to abandon the term “Gypsy Robe.” Many in the community, however, have been reluctant to do so as name “Gypsy Robe” carries a lot of nostalgia. The intent behind the tradition is a good one: celebrating the ensemble. Yet, as R. Kim Jordan, Chair of Equity’s Advisory Committee on Chorus Affairs said in a statement: “… the words we use have an impact beyond their intent, and we cannot appropriate some else’s identity without their voice attached to it.” One of our core organizational values is inclusivity, and living that value means letting go of this name.

In considering a new name we began making a list of all the things we look for in a robe winner. A suggestion was made to change the name to honor long-term PYT board member and volunteer, Judy Meyer.

 

Loryn: Not only did Judy serve faithfully on the board for 14 years, she also produced countless PYT CenterStage productions and was a driving force behind our Stories on Stage program from 2002 to 2015, producing season after season of stage adaptations of children’s literature. One of the most remarkable things about Judy was her willingness to show up and do what needed to be done to support the organization, and the families that call PYT home.

Judy produced shows, processed t-shirt orders, made sure the SOS actors were fed in between Saturday performances. Judy organized and ran auditions, made phone calls, proctored rehearsals, and recruited new volunteers. In short, Judy made things happen, and helped PYT move forward in countless ways.  With her commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to help, Judy embodies all of the characteristics we look for in a Robe winner.  She remains a key supporter and beloved member of the PYT family.

Loryn: Volunteers, like ensemble members, rarely get the recognition they deserve for all they do to make a show successful, and so it seems especially fitting that we use this opportunity to honor one of PYT’s most supportive and dedicated volunteers.  We are pleased to announce the evolution of the “Gypsy Robe” to the “Judy Robe” and look forward to honoring her work as we honor PYT’s extraordinary ensemble members for years to come!

Spotlight was delighted to be able to interview Judy Meyer after the first “Judy Robe” ceremony held last week for “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat“.

How do you feel about having the PYT gypsy robe named for you?

Judy: I feel very honored to have my name associated with this wonderful tradition, however, there are so many other amazing volunteers at PYT that are just as deserving. PYT has a very supportive group of volunteers who have stayed on long after their children have moved on.

What was one of your most fondest memories over the years being involved with PYT?

Judy: After so many years at PYT, it is hard to come up with one fond memory – there are so many!  However, one of my favorite times of working on a production was moving into the theater. After all those weeks of rehearsals at the studio (and building, painting and sewing for the volunteers), it was such a joy to see those kids get on stage for the first time. Tech Week is long and tedious for everyone involved, but then the thrill of seeing those live performances are well worth it all!

Any advice for our budding actors and aspiring “Judy Robe” award winners?

Judy: Be willing to try new things! There are so many learning experiences that you will gain as you participate in theater. You are so fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such talented staff who are there to teach you new skills in a friendly, supportive environment.  You will be surprised how quickly you start to gain confidence in yourself.  Also your willingness to be a good team player is also an important factor in the success of a show.

What would be your wish for all the kids who participate and perform with PYT?

Judy: I have loved having the opportunity to watch so many of these young people grow up over the years. My wish for our PYT kids is that when they move on to the next step in their journey, they will take away wonderful memories from their theater days and that the skills they have learned along the way will help them to succeed in whatever they choose to do with their life.

What are you doing now?

Judy: Presently, I am working as a Property Manager for our family business.  I miss working with everyone at PYT, but I do look forward to seeing all the shows!

Spotlight congratulates Judy and our first “Judy Robe” Winner Elizabeth Wang!

Tickets for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are still available!

Blog by Barbie Koch

Photos by Lyn Healy, Spotlight Moments Photography